Matina's magic

BANGKOK — Each time I visit this city, I am amazed at the quality of its homegrown labels. Many young Thai designers, while naturally talented, are formally trained in prestigious art schools abroad. And most of them have one main goal: to establish their brand in Thailand and be stocked abroad.

Aside from clothes, Bangkok is becoming a go-to place for unique accessories. Matina Amanita’s shop at the Gaysorn Shopping Center is definitely a must-stop for those who adore opulent yet hip kinds of jewelry.

Started in 2005 by Matina Amanita, the brand was established shortly after the designer graduated from Parsons School of Design in New York. She is one-third of her sisters’ fashion label, Sretsis, where she is in charge of accessories.

Five years later, Matina Amanita continues to grow its impressive list of stockists such as Opening Ceremony in Tokyo, Kabiri by Selfridges in London, and other fine stores in the United States, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Korea.

The Mars Crystal Charm, Beatrice Pendant 1, and Judah Necklace depict Matina’s love for animals.

On a recent trip to Bangkok, I met up with Matina to preview her latest collection called “Magical Night Under the Starlight.”

Matina takes inspiration from Greek mythology, architectural monuments, woodlands, animals, warriors, love and death. As for this new collection, she wanted to explore the magical universe.

She says: “I am a big fan of stars and astrology. I like the contrast between dream and reality. So, for this collection I just let my imagination flow and travel beyond the universe.”

In order for her customers to fully understand the theme of her collection, Matina produced a short video entitled Matina Amanita — Magical Night under the Starlight, which can be viewed on YouTube.

Matina’s love for animals is apparent in her jewelry collection. The unicorn, lion and owl are staples in her pieces. These three also represent Matina and her sisters. “Pim is a unicorn, Kly is a lion as she is always fierce, and I will always be the owl. You’ve seen them in my past collections — in geometric, natural and skeletal forms. This time, I wanted my three mascots to be king and queen. Most of them have a crown or gem on their heads.”

Shades of blue topaz, sapphire and amethyst set the mood and tone of the collection as they illustrate the colors of the skylight. One special feature of the jewelry is an uncut healing crystal placed in charm pendant necklaces.

The Lady Capella Ring in gold- and rhodium-plated versions are highlighted with synthetic gemstones.

“I studied and read a lot about Chakras (centers of the spiritual powers of the human body). From there, I’ve learned that crystals can heal the human body,” Matina explains.

Each crystal is unique and unpolished; no two are alike. Cut in crystal point, it is designed to bring luck and promote healing.

Her two personal favorite pieces are the “Love From The Stars Above” necklace, which features Pim’s handwriting; and a very exclusive piece she designed for her sister’s future engagement called the “King Judah” ring, which comes in gold- and rhodium-plated versions.

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In Bangkok, Matina Amanita jewelry is available at the Siam Paragon mall. For international orders, you can buy online at http://www.bangkoksmiths.com.

To know more visit http://www.matinaamanita.com.